18-Year-Old Launches Successful Ice Cream Shop in Ottumwa

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

In Ottumwa, Iowa, 18-year-old Christian Vass has opened his own ice cream shop, Christian's Ice Cream, after the previous Dairy Queen owner offered him the building at a bargain price. With the support of his father, David Vass, Christian seized the unexpected opportunity and embarked on his entrepreneurial journey, becoming one of the youngest business owners in the area.

Why it matters

Christian's story challenges the common perception that age is a barrier to starting a business. His success as a teenage entrepreneur inspires others and showcases the power of determination, family support, and seizing unexpected opportunities, even in a small town like Ottumwa where the average business owner is typically between 30 and 50 years old.

The details

Christian's journey began when the previous Dairy Queen owner, impressed by his work at the South Side Drug Store's soda fountain, offered him the old Dairy Queen building at a discounted price. With his savings and his father's support, Christian and his dad, David, carefully considered the venture and decided to take on the challenge of opening an ice cream shop. Despite being one of the few under-20 entrepreneurs in the Ottumwa area, Christian's passion for bringing joy to his customers and creating memorable experiences has made his ice cream shop a delightful destination for the community.

• In 2026, the previous Dairy Queen owner offered Christian the old building at a bargain price.
• Christian and his father, David, carefully considered the venture and decided to open the ice cream shop.

What’s next

As Christian's Ice Cream continues to thrive, the young entrepreneur's story will likely inspire more young people in Ottumwa to pursue their entrepreneurial dreams, challenging the traditional age norms for business owners in the community.